Photograph by: Peter J. Thompson/National Post
, Freelance

Tails are wagging throughout the VIP social circle. That stands for Very Important Pet.

One of the Tremblant region's most popular resorts is Le Chenil de la Forêt, a getaway for as many as 50 dogs. It's tucked in the forest between Mont Tremblant, the ski area, and its so-called downtown sector, the town formerly known as St. Jovite.

"It's more than a kennel, we do a lot for the dogs," said Peiffer, who has studied canine behaviour and health issues with veterinarians and trainers. "Clients tell me that when they turn onto our street, the dogs gets excited because they know they're going to have fun here. Then I have achieved my goal."

The personal trainers - or handlers - at le Chenil de la Forêt take the dogs out five to six times a day, sometimes to run loose and sometimes on a leash. Whereas many kennels use only a narrow, enclosed dog run, the land here includes a large playground with enough space to get in a good romp. If two dogs of the same size, age or temperament get along well, they're put out together to socialize. Indoors, the television and radio are kept on for company and diversion. Christmas is in the air, and there is a rumour that Santa Paws might visit.

Le Chenil serves morning and evening meals tailored to the dogs' individual tastes. Treats are offered as afternoon snacks. A puppy menu is designed for young ones.

Peiffer also organizes daily housekeeping. Doggie blankets are laundered daily, and the guest cages are freshened up and disinfected. The floors are so clean you could eat off of them - most guests do. Le Chenil offers spa services such as vigorous belly massages, baths and grooming. During the summer, the place is air-conditioned.

Peiffer has operated Le Chenil de la Forêt for 13 years. "My clientele is quite well-travelled," she said. "About 30 per cent of the dogs come from Montreal, Ontario and the U.S. for a weekend or a week, because their owners are vacationing around Tremblant and they want to spend time with their pets.

"Others are going away on vacation and leave their dogs here to board for between one and three weeks."

Peiffer also plays host to a number of celebrity dogs, screen stars and pets of the rich and famous. However, like any good hotelier, she would not drop names in case the puppy-razzi hounds her clientele.

Le Chenil has 15 kennels for small dogs that weigh 5 to 10 kilograms, as well as 20 large spaces for those weighing more than 10 kilograms. It's usually single occupancy, but in peak season, there is the possibility of sharing a cage.

Clients also bring dogs for training and training to deal with behavioural problems. "Many dogs are troubled because there's a lot of stress in the world, and the owners are so busy they don't give the animals enough or consistent exercise.

"I've also been consulted about dogs also who suffer from depression or anxiety or exhibit aggressive behaviour. Often the situation is caused by people who don't know how to treat the animals. I work with them, and when we make progress, it's very fulfilling."

Peiffer also breeds soft-coated wheaten terriers and rare schapendoes, a medium-sized sheepdog from Holland that looks like a small bearded collie.

Chenil de la Forêt is an exclusive establishment: There are certain requirements that canine guests need to fulfill. It's a bit like a private club. All dog owners must present proof of their pet's vaccinations upon registration. Good manners are essential. The hoteliers will write a report about each dog's demeanour and, if it's not up to standards, the dog might not be invited back. Intercom surveillance is on 24 hours a day.

Although it seems a little undignified, all dogs are examined upon arrival for fleas and other parasites to prevent an outbreak.

Peiffer can arrange transportation from Montreal or any Laurentian-area hotel at an extra fee. Sometimes she arranges to meet dog owners halfway, perhaps in St. Sauveur, to pick up their pets.

countryroads04@aol.com

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If You Go

Take Route 117 north to Mont Tremblant (St. Jovite sector) and turn on right on rue Kavanagh to Rang 8.

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